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Quick Homemade Cranberry Fluff
I'm excited to pass along my go-to holiday treat that everyone goes crazy for. This no-fuss cranberry fluff mixes tangy fresh cranberries, juicy pineapple and soft marshmallows all folded into a smooth, airy mixture. It works great as a simple side or a light after-meal sweet at your holiday gathering, and folks constantly want to know how to make it.
What Makes This Simple Dish Special
You'll fall for this delightful fluff because:
- It needs just a handful of basic ingredients
- You'll get both tanginess and sweetness in one spoonful
- You can whip it up ahead to avoid last-minute holiday chaos
- It fits in as either a side or a light sweet finish
Basic Components for Cranberry Fluff
- Fresh Cranberries: They give this easy dish that holiday tang.
- Granulated Sugar: Balances out the cranberries' tartness.
- Cream Cheese: Gives our fluff its velvety richness.
- Heavy Whipping Cream: Creates that airy, light texture.
- Crushed Pineapple: Adds a hint of sunny sweetness to the mix.
- Mini Marshmallows: Delivers that signature pillowy feel.
Straightforward Making Process
- Cranberry Starting Point
- Blitz the cranberries and sugar together in your food processor. You want them broken down but not mushy.
- Whip Up the Creamy Base
- Soften the cream cheese with mixing, then gradually beat in cream, sugar and vanilla until it's light and fluffy.
- Combine Everything
- Carefully mix in your cranberry mixture, the drained pineapple bits, and those soft marshmallows. Don't overmix.
- Cool It Down
- Stick your fluff in the fridge for at least 2 hours so all the flavors can blend together nicely.
Ways to Nail This Dish
- Sugar Soak: Give those cranberries time with the sugar—they'll mellow out beautifully.
- Cold Option: Can't find fresh cranberries? Thawed frozen ones will do just fine if you drain them well.
- Texture Boost: Want some crunch? Throw in a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans.
- Time-Saver: When you're rushed, a tub of Cool Whip can stand in for the whipped cream.
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Plan Ahead and Keep Fresh
- You can fix this up to 2 days before serving—just wrap it well in the refrigerator.
- Your fluff will stay good in the fridge for about 3 days, but don't try to freeze it.
A Festive Table Must-Have
This no-fuss cranberry fluff brings a perfect mix of sweet, tangy and creamy flavors in each bite. It's become such a key part of our family celebrations that we can't imagine Thanksgiving or Christmas without it. Once you try it, I bet it'll become a regular feature at your holiday meals too.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Why should sugar coat the cranberries?
Makes the cranberries less sour and softens them perfectly.
- → Am I able to prep this early?
Sure, you can make it a day in advance and keep it chilled.
- → What does whipping to peaks do?
Gives the mix a smooth, airy texture that stays light.
- → Can frozen cranberries replace fresh ones?
Fresh ones are best, but thawed frozen options also work.
- → Is pineapple draining important here?
Yes, it keeps the mix from turning watery.